June 29, 2026 at 04:59 AM 2 min readindiadeveloping

IMD Forecasts Monsoon Arrival in North India Within Days

Monsoon Progress Forecast:

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects the southwest monsoon to reach Delhi and North India within the next 5-6 days. This arrival is highly anticipated as the region battles severe heatwaves. While the onset in Kerala marked the beginning of the season, the delay in the northern advancement has exacerbated dry conditions, making June 2026 the fifth-driest June recorded since 1901.

Driest June Conditions:

Significant heat persists across Delhi and Uttar Pradesh due to the delayed monsoon progression. Meteorologists note that the southwest monsoon is the backbone of Indian agriculture, and the current delay underscores the volatility in climate patterns impacting the current agricultural cycle. The transition from extreme heat to seasonal rainfall is essential to restoring soil moisture and supporting the upcoming planting phases across the northern states.

Agricultural Economic Outlook:

Farmers and policymakers are waiting for the rain to mitigate heat stress on crops and water resources. The arrival of the monsoon in North India is projected to change the prevailing dry weather conditions by early July. Continued monitoring of the monsoon's speed is vital for the agricultural and economic stability of the country, especially following a record-dry month. The market will react to the progress of the monsoon as it dictates the harvest outlook for the year.
Pulse Intelligence
AI Analysis
  • The southwest monsoon traditionally starts in early June in Kerala before advancing north.
  • India has faced a persistent heatwave across its northern territories, leading to delayed agricultural preparations.
  • Temperatures are expected to drop significantly in North India once the monsoon rains begin.
  • Agricultural activities, particularly sowing for the kharif season, will accelerate immediately upon the arrival of the rains.
  • Water reservoir levels are expected to begin recovery as the monsoon season officially deepens.

Monsoon progress is a key indicator for agricultural commodities and inflation management in India.